Christofle Sterling Silver Marks & A History of Christofle Sterling Silver Marks

Posted on August 23, 2023September 20, 2023 by AntiqueSilver

Christofle is a French manufacturer of fine silver flatware and other home accessories. The company was founded in 1830 when Charles Christofle, then a popular jeweler, expanded his line to include silver picture frames, porcelain dinnerware, crystal vases, and hollowware. A variety of designers and artists helped to create Christofle’s pieces, included famed Parisian silversmith Antoine Perrin, Jean Cocteau, and Gio Ponti, among others.

Like most prominent silver designers, Christofle wanted a way for his customers to identify his pieces and their authenticity. To do this, he placed a hallmark on each of his products through the use of a complex stamping process. These hallmarks are created to identify authentic silver at purchase, and they are intended to be easily seen by the user.

A History of Christofle Sterling Silver Marks

Charles Christofle was the first person to introduce French-made electroplated silver to the world. His pride over this accomplishment led him to mark his items to properly identify his work, and this mark has varied over time. Early marks included the initials “G” and “C” along with a scale in the center. Later marks include the word “Gallia” for the Christofle Gallia silver range above a cockerel. Many pieces are also stamped with “Christofle” next to the maker’s mark.

Silver Marks Since 1976

At the International Hallmark Convention in 1976, changes were made to silver marks that would be accepted in the United States, England and the rest of Europe. To identify an item as sterling silver, most manufacturers adopted the standard silver mark of 925. This indicates that the silver content of a piece is 92.5% – the mandatory amount for an item to claim to be sterling.

If you have a piece that you believe to be an authentic Christofle but it doesn’t contain the 925 stamp – or any other silver hallmark – you should be leery of both its silver content and its overall authenticity. While there are other tests that can help you determine if the item is actual sterling or is simply sterling plated, an antique dealer might be your best option to determine if you are really in possession of a Christofle antique.

Have Your Silver Examined By a Florida Silver Buyer

Do you believe that you might have a silver Christofle piece, but you’re not sure if it is authentic? The experienced Florida silver buyers at Antique Silver Buyers can help. Not only do we have experience identifying the hallmarks of Christofle items, but we can also tell you exactly how much your piece – or collection – might be worth. With a comprehensive market analysis, we’ll give you an idea about how much your antique would sell for at an auction. We’ll even purchase them (at a bid just below our market analysis) if you are interested in selling.

Silver Appraisal: Know the Current Market Value of Your Silver

Posted on August 17, 2023September 20, 2023 by AntiqueSilver

If you have silver, it is important that you know exactly what it is worth. This is especially important if you are contemplating selling the item. There are silver flatware collectors that will buy your item if you are willing to sell but you need to establish the true value of what you have.

First, know the type of silver you have

Sterling silver flatware are made of real silver unlike silverplate that are metals coated with silver to look like the main thing. Your first step is to establish that the item you have is sterling silver. In the United States, for instance, every silver created after 1850 is stamped with one of these three marks:

Sterling
.925
925/1000

Unless the silver was made before 1850, you will see one of these stamps. If you find the stamp, you are a step closer to knowing the current value of your silver.

Finding the Value of Antique Silver

Once you are certain you have a real silver, it is time to know your antique flatware worth. An expert will be needed to ascertain the actual worth but you can make some progress on your own.

Antique silver flatware patterns are necessary to get the significant information that can let you determine the current worth of the silver or make an estimation that is close to the actual value. You will also need to find out the manufacturers of the silver. Asides from the sterling stamp, silver items have hallmarks that you can use to know the manufacturer and other important information like the date it was produced.

When you know the pattern and the manufacturer of the silver, you can check the retail price for replacement pieces online; you can also get detailed information about the age and value of your silver from most of these sites.

There are several websites with resources that can help you figure out the current market value of your silver. You can also use antique appraisers and dealers to help you with it but make sure whoever you are dealing with is reputable.

Antique Silver & Vintage Silver – Differences you need to know before you look to sell?

Posted on August 16, 2023September 20, 2023 by AntiqueSilver

Do you know the different between an antique silver flatware set and a vintage silver set? Unfortunately, many people assume that the terms “antique” and “vintage” are interchangeable. They aren’t, and the difference between the two can be a very large sum of money. You need to know how antique differs from vintage before you sell your silver flatware.

Flatware Has a Long History

Sterling silver flatware sets have been around for centuries. This means the idea of what’s an antique is different than it is for other things. For example, the Antique Automobile Club of America considered a car to be an antique if it’s 25 years old. That’s definitely not true of silver!

There’s Not a Set Standard

One thing antique silver flatware buyers often try to do is convince those who aren’t collectors that their flatware isn’t old enough to be considered an antique. The reason why this is fairly easy to do is because there’s no set standard of when flatware becomes an antique. It can also depend on the flatware manufacturer, the country it was made in, and more.

A Helpful Definition

While there’s no set standard, many people do follow a common scale for judging flatware. If it was made after 1950, it’s definitely not antique or vintage—it’s a set of modern flatware. For sets made prior to 1950 but after 1900, give or take a decade or two, vintage is usually the term used. If you have true antique silver flatware for sale, it should have been made before 1900.

How it Affects the Value

Obviously, the older the flatware is, the more valuable it can be. An antique set of silver flatware that can be dated to the 1850s is more valuable than a vintage set from the 1920s. Of course, condition and whether or not you have the full set does play a part in the value. Overall, though, older silver generally fetches a higher price.

Exploring the Legacy: Profiles of Three Renowned Antique Silver Smith

Posted on July 25, 2023August 18, 2023 by AntiqueSilver

Craftsmen specialize in a trade. They work for many years to perfect their skill and develop their own personal style. Throughout history some craftsmen or craftswomen stand out from the crowd and become famous. The most legendary of silver smiths are Paul Storr, Hester Bateman, and Paul de Lamerie. They had set themselves apart; commissioned to create pieces for some of the wealthiest in history. As a result, their works are still some of the most highly sought after for antique silver buyers and collectors. If you have one of their sterling silver pieces, you have a high value item rooted in a rich history.

Who Was Paul Storr?

Paul Storr was a protégé. He began his apprenticeship at age 14. Most apprentices are bound to their masters for years, often until the age of 21. At that time, Storr entered a partnership, but quickly began marking with his own personal stamp using his own initials when he was just 21 years old. He was best known for his commemorative pieces and they were always embellished lavishly.

During the late 18th Century until his death in 1844, Paul Storr was an accomplished English silversmith who was commissioned by many of the aristocratic society, even King George III. There are around 500 known works of his still around today and each one of them highly prized. To give you a good idea of what his works are actually worth, an unaltered tureen, which is a pot used for serving soup, can go for $70,000 at auction.

Who Was Hester Bateman?

Hester Bateman was also an English silver smith. Her career was from 1761 to 1790. She inherited the precious metal working business from her deceased gold smith husband, but she had great talent herself. And she successfully kept the family company going strong with the help of her sons, grandsons, and even great-grandsons! Unlike most men who would learn their trade through apprenticeship, Bateman learned by watching her husband. Her skill allowed her to be commissioned by many of the large firms in the area, but given that she was a woman and her reputation was spreading fast, they often stamped over her maker’s mark for many of her early years.

The last 10 years of her 30 year career proved her identity as a Master Silver Smith and that no one could keep her simply elegant style covered up. There are an estimated 11,000 pieces that were crafted during her career. Most of them she designed and priced with the middle class in mind, something not many silversmiths were doing during that time.

Who Was Paul de Lamerie?

Another one of the English silversmith greats, de Lamerie had an earlier start. Some say he is the “greatest silversmith of the 18th Century”. He came from the Huguenot family, precious metal workers from France who fled to London where Paul got his start. In 1712, he established his own shop. He is known for his exquisitely lavish attention to detail and a personal, intricate version of the French Rococo style.

His maker’s mark is probably the most highly sought after in antique silver markings. One of his tureens is priced retail right now at $335,000.

If you have a silver piece, you need to know its value. An antique silver dealer will be able to evaluate your item and most importantly tell you if it is antique silver 925. They are able to provide you with the rich history of your piece(s) and conduct appraisals. Even if your item does not carry one of these three silversmith marks, you may still have a very valuable item.

Preserving a Rich Legacy

The artistry of Paul Storr, Hester Bateman, and Paul de Lamerie has left an indelible mark on the world of silversmithing. Their skillful craftsmanship, dedication to their craft, and ability to capture the essence of their times are evident in every piece they created.

Paul Storr’s Signature Touch

Paul Storr’s journey from apprentice to celebrated silversmith was marked by innovation and creativity. His intricate designs and attention to detail earned him a reputation as a master of his trade. His commemorative pieces, often adorned with lavish embellishments, reflected the grandeur of aristocratic society that commissioned them. These pieces not only showcased his exceptional technical skills but also served as tokens of historical significance. Today, owning a Paul Storr sterling silver piece is like holding a tangible piece of history – a testament to the opulence and elegance of the past.

Hester Bateman’s Legacy of Excellence

Hester Bateman’s story is one of resilience and determination. In an era when female artisans were often overshadowed, she defied expectations and emerged as a prominent figure in the world of silversmithing. Learning her craft by observing her husband’s work, she transformed her inherited business into a flourishing enterprise. Despite challenges and gender biases, her elegant designs and quality craftsmanship earned her recognition among large firms and patrons. Her journey highlights the power of talent and perseverance, and her legacy lives on through the numerous pieces she created, catering to the tastes of the middle class.

Paul de Lamerie’s Masterful Creations

Paul de Lamerie’s intricate and lavish designs have solidified his position as one of the greatest silversmiths of the 18th century. His mastery of the French Rococo style and meticulous attention to detail set his work apart. The Huguenot heritage that he brought to London enriched the city’s silversmithing tradition, and his creations reflected a fusion of influences. The rarity and desirability of his maker’s mark showcase his lasting impact on antique silver collections. Each of his pieces is a window into a world of luxury and refinement, capturing the essence of a bygone era.

Discovering the Worth of Your Treasure

If you are fortunate enough to possess a silver piece attributed to Paul Storr, Hester Bateman, or Paul de Lamerie, you hold a treasure of historical and artistic value. The craftsmanship of these legendary silversmiths has stood the test of time, and their works continue to captivate collectors, historians, and enthusiasts alike. If you wish to unveil the true worth of your silver piece, seeking the expertise of an antique silver dealer is invaluable. These experts can provide not only an appraisal of its monetary value but also insights into its historical context and significance. While pieces bearing the marks of these master silversmiths are especially sought after, even if your item doesn’t carry their marks, it could still hold considerable value based on its craftsmanship, design, and era. Owning a sterling silver piece by Paul Storr, Hester Bateman, or Paul de Lamerie is akin to holding a piece of art and history in your hands. Their legacies continue to shine brightly, and each of their creations is a testament to the enduring appeal of exquisite craftsmanship.

Guide to Identifying Silver Flatware Marks: Everything You Need to Know

Posted on July 17, 2023August 18, 2023 by AntiqueSilver

Sterling silver flatware is one of the most commonly collected items due to the vast availability arising from the Renaissance time period and sets being handed down from generation to generation. For hundreds of years earlier during the Middle Ages,the way people ate was not as important as finding the food to eat. After trade began to open back up and the arts and sciences were rebirthed, utensils for eating became a part of the revitalized culture.

Flatware was a canvas for artistic expression and a way to show off new found wealth. Over the years, new designs were breathed with creative inspiration and distributed across the world into almost every home. The peak period of sterling silver flatware was between the years of 1840 through 1940, yet the tradition of gifting flatware is still customary today.

The Artistic Nature of Sterling Silver Flatware

Silversmiths identified their work by marking each piece with their maker’s mark. As their reputations swelled we are well acquainted with some of them today:

Lenox Gorham
Reed and Barton
Tiffany & Co
Whiting

And then there are the names of the silversmith legends that are known for not only producing some of the finest silver pieces; their marks set the standard for collectors all around the world:

Paul de Lamerie
Hester Bateman
Paul Storr

Valuation of Antique Sterling Silver Flatware Marks

In addition to Makers’ marks, there are many other marks that tell the story of each piece or set of flatware and help to determine its worth much like art is today. Many of the famous names in sterling silver craftsmanship established their own firms to continue on their legacies. Complete sets from one of these firms may bring more at auction or individual, highly sought after pieces handcrafted from Gorham himself may bring the higher dollar value.

It all depends on the makers’ marks in addition to marks that are rarer than others. Some marks were only used for a short period of time. As a result, there are fewer pieces in circulation. Some pieces were also stamped with a duty mark to show taxes were paid on the piece, as silver pieces were seen as minted currency throughout much of history and subject to taxation. Pieces stamped more than once are considered rarer and hold more value.

Other factors include pieces that no longer have a place in our society such as a fork specifically for nuts or a stuffing spoon. With some sets containing hundreds of pieces compared to our modern 20 piece sets, it is hard to imagine what all the pieces were used for yet to a collector, each piece is significant.

The display of marks on sterling silver flatware can be as diverse as the designs themselves and include much more information than just who made it. It takes a devoted professional to identify and valuate each piece or set. If you have any flatware you would want to know more about, we are always happy to take a look and let you know if your items are worth appraising.

The Ultimate Guide to Selling Your Sterling Silver Antique Flatware

Posted on July 14, 2023August 18, 2023 by AntiqueSilver

Do you have some antique silver flatware you’d like to sell, but aren’t sure where to take it? There are a number of different places you could sell your silver, but not all of these places are going to give you what it’s truly worth.

To Collectors

If you know someone who collects silver pieces, you may decide to offer your silver flatware to them. Collectors are going to be very particular about what they buy, though, so don’t expect to get a good offer if your silver isn’t in good condition, isn’t a complete set, or isn’t that old. They may also attempt to negotiate by pointing out defects or discussing the rarity of your set. Be cautious when selling to collectors, especially if you don’t know them well.

Online

If you type “where to sell antique silver flatware” into a search engine, you’ll likely get a number of online dealer sites. You can put your silver pieces up for sale here, but there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you have to have excellent pictures that truly show the condition of the flatware. Second, remember that many serious buyers don’t really shop online since they can’t examine the quality of the pieces themselves. You may get less than you’d like selling online.

At an Auction

Another way to get cash & money for silver pieces is to take them to an auction. While there may be serious bidders here, remember that you will have to pay a commission to the auction service.

To a Buyer

Finally, there are some professional antique silver flatware buyers out there who purchase pieces to later resell. They often know the value of the pieces and are willing to pay that amount, especially if they know someone they call sell the flatware to for a profit.

In your selling journey, remember that research and preparation are key. Understanding the market, knowing the history and value of your antique silver flatware, and choosing the selling method that aligns with your goals will help you make informed decisions and maximize your chances of getting a fair price for your valuable pieces.

Antique Silver Tea Sets – Best Tips for Prolonged Use and Beauty Retention of the Set

Posted on June 11, 2023June 12, 2023 by AntiqueSilver

One of the most beautiful pieces of silver you can have is a sterling silver tea set. These sets are elegant but also quite functional. Antique silver tea sets are often passed down through families and come to be known as treasured heirlooms. Unfortunately, as with any silver, these tea sets need to be kept in good condition in order for them to remain looking as great as they do. If you have an antique silver tea set, here are some tips for keeping it looking beautiful and functional.

Use It

One of the best ways to keep your silver tea set looking great is to use it regularly. While some antique silver tea set collectors are concerned that regular use will result in the set tarnishing, the opposite is actually true. When you frequently use your silver tea set and clean it properly, it will actually remain looking as elegant and beautiful as the day you inherited it.

Polish It Regularly

Whether you use it frequently or infrequently, you do need to make certain that you polish the tea set at least yearly. If you use it more often, you may want to polish it after each use or at least every few months. When you see spots on your tea set that look brown or light gold, you know it’s time to give it a polish. The best way to do so is to use standard silver polish and a soft cloth.

You can use some basic household items such as toothpaste or cornstarch to polish your silver, but you can also buy specific silver polishes. Just make sure the polish is designed for use on silver. This is the safest option to keep your silver tea set looking amazing. For tea sets that have very intricate etched designs or have areas that are hard to get into, you can use a cotton swab or even a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean it.

Rinse Out the Set After Use

Many silver tea set buyers look inside the tea pot and carefully inspect each item to make certain they were cleaned after use. Always rinse out your tea set before you put it up, but also be sure that no water is left. Wipe out all of the water before you put your tea set up since it can cause spots to appear. Make certain you clean your tea set if it comes into contact with anything that contains citrus, vinegar, or other corrosive foods. These foods can quickly cause damage if left in contact with the silver.

Storage

If you’re looking to buy sterling silver tea sets online, always ask how the tea set has been stored. Silver needs to be kept away from excessive heat and air. Ideally, it will be kept in an airtight chest or drawer. Many silver sets designed for use with hot beverages actually come with some kind of airtight container to store them in. Again, make sure that the tea set is completely dry before you store it in any of these containers. You should also wrap each piece in felt, cotton, or an acid-free paper before storing it.

How do I identify the value of antique silver candlesticks?

Posted on June 8, 2023June 12, 2023 by AntiqueSilver

Antique silver candlesticks are outstanding and charming home decor antiquities. We people love their design and style, which always makes us hunt for such precious metal items. To deal with 925 sterling silver candlesticks, there are a few factors that need reflection in order to know the right value, either to sell or purchase.

If you’re a passionate antique lover and searching for the real value of your inherited candle holder, scroll down to learn how to determine the price of old silver candlesticks and other facts about the piece.

Different Types Of Antique Sterling Silver Candlesticks

Candelabras

It is a several-branched type of candlestick with multiple lights. It is especially used for chandeliers.

Chambersticks

Commonly used in the 18th and 19th centuries and decorated with intricate designs and embellishments, with a cone-shaped tool used to hold the wax.

Fairy Lamps

Historically dated back to 135 years. It is a small, beautiful, magical glass lamp that is manufactured in multiple alluring colors.

Taper candlestick holder

Taper candle holders are typically made of metal, wood, brass, or glass, with 10%–20% silver. They come in a variety of shapes and styles to suit different tastes and decor styles.

How do I recognize the price of old silver candlesticks?

An antique silver appraiser can help you find the real value of ancient silver candle holders. There are a few factors that enable an appraiser to evaluate the price. So, if you’re willing to uncover the topic, you can visit an antique silver store where you can get your piece evaluated.

On the other hand, the following are the traits that, when in favor, can exceed the sterling silver candlestick’s value and make you a fortunate being.

1. Material

The first and foremost thing that is looked after is the material used in making candle holders. If the materials are highly precious metals or other objects with hallmarks, then the item’s value gets exorbitant.

Generation

This means the age; it’s the crucial part of determining the price of any antique. The age defines the historical presence of the candle sticks and are many decades old. Then, you’re very lucky to get the sky-high value.

Provenance

The place of manufacturing matters a lot in the evaluation process. It confirms the reality that the product was made and has historical evidence.

Quality

The condition has an important role in appraisal. How? If the item is broken or damaged, eventually its price will decrease. And if the candlesticks are in perfect condition, then you have a good chance.

Manufacturer

Last but not least, craftsmanship, the previous owner, or the brand If the silver candelbras are made by a big brand or their precious owner is a reputed person who is elite, their price gets doubled or tripled. If you possess a Tiffany sterling silver candlestick, you have a great chance to reap the benefits of your luxurious chambersticks.

So, this was the complete silver candle holder price guide that’s going to help you whenever you feel confused or you can be attentive to whether your hired silver buyer is covering these factors in the evaluation process.

Who appraises silver candlesticks near me in Florida or online?

We at Antique Silver Buyers buy and appraise precious metal fairy lamps and other home decor items at the best price. If you have antique silver candlesticks for sale, come to us or contact us online through our website to follow the effortless process to get in touch with us for a free online appraisal.

Finding the Right Buyer: Looking Locally for Sterling Silver Buyers Near You

Posted on June 6, 2023June 6, 2023 by AntiqueSilver

When selling sterling silver to a buyer takes effort and time to get most of it. Everything starts with finding a trusted dealer who can offer you an accurate, honest, and reliable deal. It can be sometimes daunting, especially when you’re a newbie. And for professionals, it’s just like winning the game again & again.

Beginners out there, there’s no need to worry and feel stuck in your thoughts of identifying the right ones. To make your search end right at one place, we’ve created this blog post. It contains helpful information about how to find reputed sterling silver buyers near you…

Let’s complete the reading part as soon as possible, and bring such practices into action in the waking world…

#1. Customer experience matters the most!

When you’re searching digitally or offline about any services, you always check for customer feedback & reviews. It gives a big sign whether the company can be trusted or not. You got to know about its red and green flag. Right? Similarly, when you’re searching for a reliable local silver buyer, you need to do the same. Get clear clarification before you decide to deal with him/her.

#2. Communication reveals deepest facts

When dealing with a silverware buyer, keeping your perks straight is the only way to achieve your aim. When you sell your valuable object online, you don’t need to stop by their shop, you can just make a phone call & directly keep your word. Additionally, you need to talk about everything that increases the chances of the buyer to prove his/her reputation.

#3. Must-have Experience & Certification

The third most important trait of sterling silver flatware shops is their experience in their expertise and whether they are certified or not. Examine their professionalism with years of experience. Check whether the shop is certified A+ from BBB (Better Business Bureau). Such qualities when fulfilled, you are going to deal with the right buyer.

#4. Best price guaranteed!

You already know that your sterling silverware is actually a valuable object. And, of course you need top price for it. Remember that, look for such buyers who offer great prices for your great valuables. You can ask the dealer what prices they can offer & also take 2-3 silver appraisal to get confirmation about sterling silver flatware accurate value.

Final Verdict!

Make decisions wisely! Afterall, it’s about your precious silverware and money. However, above-mentioned facts need to be fulfilled by buyers out there in order to attract customers. Do your research and never miss a chance to get above your expectations.

Additionally, If searching for “who buys sterling silver near me,” let us introduce ourselves, we are the right silver buyers for you! We are Florida’s largest and most trusted dealers who buy silverware and offer great-great prices. Get in touch with us now!